Biden pardons thousands of marijuana offenders, gives clemency to 11 people
Al Jazeera
Biden says the actions are meant to address disparities in sentencing that have long taken a toll on the Black community.
US President Joe Biden has pardoned thousands of people convicted of use and simple possession of marijuana on federal lands and in the District of Columbia, says the White House.
Friday’s action, Biden’s latest in executive clemencies meant to rectify racial disparities in the justice system, broadened the criminal offences covered by the pardon.
Biden has also granted clemency to 11 people serving what the White House called “disproportionately long” sentences for non-violent drug offences.
In a statement, he said his actions would help make the “promise of equal justice a reality”.
“Criminal records for marijuana use and possession have imposed needless barriers to employment, housing, and educational opportunities,” Biden said.
